Painting And Decorating

[postman44]

When asking a painter and decorator to do a job should you get an estimate or a fixed price. Thank you.

[dannyk13]

Not many tradesmen give fixed prices.

[Ken4155]

It has been my experience that with most jobs it is easy enough to quote a fixed price. However, there are occasions - the state of walls when stripped, for instance - where more work may be necessary and this will obviously affect the price.

[hellywelly4]

Many years ago we accepted an estimate for a huge paint job and lived to regret it. The painter added several extras and eventually it went to court. I would always get a quote.

[elliemay1]

Did you win, helly? I would have thought that an estimate would have to be close to the final bill

[Ken4155]

There are rogues in all trades:-(

[roopower]

I always ask for a quote

[dannyk13]

ROO //I always ask for a quote//
Both estimate and price are quotes.Which one do you mean?

[Milo2]

We had two rooms painted after having them plastered and got a fixed price that included all materials. I think as the plaster was new, it was easier for the decorator to estimate a price.

[Atheist]

If you get a fixed price, then the tradesman will have to presume the worst and quote accordingly (i.e. a high price will be quoted). If you get an estimate, then the tradesman might estimate low based on the ideal situation, knowing that (s)he can always recoup any losses by asking for extras which depend on what's found as the job goes on. An honest person will not fiddle the extras. If the job is simple, then a fixed price quote should be fairly easy to produce. If the job looks potentially tricky, then an estimate with the reservation that extras might crop up is reasonable. It can be a difficult choice to make. A recommended decorator would be your best choice.

[Ken4155]

^
Exactly how i always base my prices, Atheist.

[david small]

We had a quotation for four rooms and hallway. Job completed as per quote. I gave them fifty pound tip.
A written quotation is essential.